River North, Chicago facts for kids

River North is a vibrant neighborhood located in the city of Chicago, Illinois. It's part of a larger area known as the Near North Side. This exciting neighborhood is bordered by Michigan Avenue to the east, Chicago Avenue to the north, and the Chicago River to the south and west. River North is famous for its many art galleries, cool restaurants, and unique buildings.

Discovering River North

River North is a popular spot in Chicago, known for its lively atmosphere. It's a place where you can find lots of interesting things to see and do. Many people visit River North to explore its art scene and enjoy its many dining options.

Where is River North?

River North is easy to find in Chicago. Imagine a map: to its east is the famous Michigan Avenue, which is a big street with lots of shops. To the north, you'll find Chicago Avenue. The beautiful Chicago River forms the southern and western edges of the neighborhood. This river is a major landmark in Chicago and offers great views.

A Hub for Art and Fun

River North is especially known for being a center for art. It has one of the largest collections of art galleries outside of Manhattan in New York City. This means you can walk around and see many different types of art, from paintings to sculptures. Besides art, the neighborhood is also packed with restaurants, cafes, and places for entertainment. It's a great place to explore if you like trying new foods or just want to have fun.

Amazing Buildings and Views

The neighborhood is also home to some very tall and interesting buildings. One of the most famous is the Trump International Hotel and Tower. This building is very tall and offers amazing views of the city and the Chicago River. Many buildings in River North have unique designs, making the area fun to look at and explore. You can often see boats on the Chicago River, adding to the scenic views.

A Changing Neighborhood

River North has changed a lot over the years. Not long ago, it was mostly an industrial area with factories and warehouses. But starting in the 1970s, artists began moving into the empty buildings, turning them into studios and galleries. This started a process called "gentrification," which means an area becomes more modern and popular, often attracting new businesses and residents. Today, River North is a bustling and modern part of Chicago, but you can still see hints of its past in some of the older buildings.

Images for kids

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  The Chicago River from above

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  1979 photo of River North, looking northeast across Michigan Avenue to 142 E Ontario. The neighborhood had recently begun to gentrify, signaled by the modern font of the shop Whitehouse and Hardy and the art gallery above it.

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  Trump International Hotel and Tower as viewed from the Chicago River